Zebilla MP Cletus Avoka has rejected calls for a state of emergency in Bawku and its surrounding areas, despite escalating tensions following a series of violent incidents.

The situation intensified after the return of a rival chief to the region, which led to clashes and an ambush that resulted in the tragic deaths of eight travellers.

In response to the unrest, security forces have ramped up their presence in the affected areas to prevent further violence.

Additionally, the government implemented a curfew from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, October 28, as a precautionary measure to maintain order in Bawku and its environs.

Mr Avoka expressed his concerns during an interview with the Citi FM, emphasising that declaring a state of emergency could significantly disrupt campaign activities ahead of the upcoming December elections.

He argued that such a drastic step might not be necessary at this point, given the government's existing measures to address the unrest.

“It has not reached that stage for a state of emergency. You are aware that we are in an election year. Maybe one and a half months or even less than that, we will be having elections.

"A state of emergency means that people do not have their human rights vested in them to do what they want."

“They may not have rallies, they may not have meetings together, they may not travel far. They may not do certain things. And therefore, they have lost their freedom."

“Therefore, they may not be able to campaign and then have the elections. I do not think that the situation has reached a level where the government can declare a state of emergency," he said.